This guide highlights two exceptional Grim Dawn builds, both centered around the Eye of Reckoning (EoR) skill, making them true “spin doctors”. These builds are not only straightforward to play but also incredibly potent for tackling endgame content and efficient farming.
Prince I: The Fire Spin Doctor
(Wants to buy you rockets)
GRIMTOOLS >>>>
**Craft for armor/slow bonuses
This first iteration focuses on fire damage and utilizes the power of two specific item pieces in conjunction with strategic set bonuses to create a robust and high-damage build.
1.1.4.2 Update
Recent game updates required some adjustments to maintain the build’s effectiveness. Thanks to insights from the community, particularly @sir_spanksalot, item setups were refined to ensure continued Crucible viability. While not as overwhelmingly powerful as before, this build remains a strong contender, capable of completing Crucible runs effectively with careful play. See a 6:46 Crucible run with a resistant mutator here.
1.1.4.0 Update
The fire-based EoR build received an earlier update, notably changing the relic to Bane. This adjustment further solidified the build’s tankiness and sustained damage output. It continues to be an unstoppable force in the Crucible. A 6:28 Crucible run video showcases its capabilities.
Build Breakdown
The cornerstone of this “Two Pieces Spin Doctors” build lies in the combination of two Alladrah’s Spellblades and the 3-piece Justicar Guard set. While testing explored the full Justicar set, it was found that the current configuration offers superior damage and better energy management. The Conduit, synergizing effectively with the Gaze of Empyrion helmet, provides crucial energy regeneration and resistance boosts.
Gameplay revolves around engaging enemies within the Inquisitor Seal, leveraging its defensive and offensive buffs. Maintaining a sufficient number of skeletons summoned from the Revenant constellation is key for consistent flat resistance reduction debuff, amplifying damage output.
For weapon augments, Seals of Destruction were chosen over Enchanted Flints. Testing indicated comparable damage output between the two, but Seals of Destruction offer better energy sustain, crucial for prolonged spinning. While Enchanted Flints provide critical damage, the energy reservation becomes a limiting factor, especially in extended Crucible runs with Vanguard Banner.
Stats Showcase
Effective stats with Deadly Aim and Ascension active.
Character stats overview with Deadly Aim and Ascension buffs active
Eye of Reckoning damage output within Inquisitor’s Seal, with all relevant buffs and procs engaged.
Eye of Reckoning damage display within Inquisitor's Seal under buff effects
Video Demonstrations
- Crucible 6:46 run with Resistant mutator using the 1.1.4.2 spec
- Crucible 6:28 run (1.1.4.0 spec)
- Crucible 6:17 run (Sub-6 minute runs are achievable on high-performance PCs)
- Shattered Realm Shard 75 run
- Shattered Realm Shard 76 run
Prince II: The Physical Spin Doctor
(Has diamonds in his pockets)
GRIMTOOLS >>>>
**Craft for armor/physique bonuses
The second “spin doctor” build variation shifts focus to physical damage, leveraging a different set of “two pieces” to achieve formidable results.
Build Composition
The core of this build revolves around the Cyclone set. Combined with Cindercore gloves and the Empyrion’s Mercy scepter, it unlocks substantial physical damage potential for Eye of Reckoning while maintaining robust defenses. The amulet choice prioritizes resist reduction and maximizing overall resistances for enhanced survivability. Other gear selections are largely optimized for supporting physical damage and survivability.
Gameplay mirrors the fire variant: engage within Inquisitor’s Seal, and confidently face any challenge. This build is designed for facetanking and relentless spinning through even the toughest encounters.
Stat Preview
Showcasing stats with Deadly Aim and Ascension active.
Eye of Reckoning damage within Inquisitor’s Seal, demonstrating buffed damage output.
EoR damage display within Inquisitor Seal for Physical build under buffs
Video Examples
- Crucible 6:18 run (Sub-6 minute Crucible times are easily attainable on capable PCs)
- Shattered Realm Shard 75 run
Conclusion
These “two pieces spin doctors” builds offer compelling options for players seeking powerful and accessible endgame characters in Grim Dawn. Whether you prefer the fiery devastation of Prince I or the physical might of Prince II, both builds provide a robust and enjoyable path to conquer the game’s toughest challenges.
If you’re considering balance adjustments, remember the community appreciates nuanced updates that enhance build diversity and address underlying damage type imbalances like Pierce and Chaos, rather than direct nerfs to successful builds.